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GP Essay: To what extent is it more valuable to strive for personal effort and 'trying your best' in life, rather than solely focusing on achieving the most successful outcome?

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  • Feb 28
  • 5 min read

Updated: Apr 19


GP Essay: To what extent is it more valuable to strive for personal effort and 'trying your best' in life, rather than solely focusing on achieving the most successful outcome? | Tuition-MLR
GP Essay: To what extent is it more valuable to strive for personal effort and 'trying your best' in life, rather than solely focusing on achieving the most successful outcome? | Tuition-MLR


Effort Over Outcome


The Value of the Journey: Effort Over Outcome


GP Essay: To what extent is it more valuable to strive for personal effort and 'trying your best' in life, rather than solely focusing on achieving the most successful outcome?


In a world obsessed with quantifiable success, the siren call of tangible achievements often drowns out the quiet hum of personal effort. We celebrate the CEO, the gold medallist, the bestselling author, understandably so. Yet, to what extent should we prioritize the pursuit of a successful outcome over the intrinsic value of striving, of "trying our best"? While outcomes undeniably shape our lives, a deeper examination reveals that prioritizing personal effort cultivates resilience, fosters growth, and ultimately, leads to a more fulfilling existence.


The allure of a successful outcome is undeniable. Societal structures, from academic institutions to corporate hierarchies, are built upon the principle of measurable achievement. A high GPA opens doors to prestigious universities, a lucrative deal secures financial stability, and a championship title brings fame and recognition. These outcomes provide tangible rewards, validating our efforts and offering a sense of accomplishment. However, this singular focus on results can breed a culture of ruthless competition, where the ends justify the means. It can lead to unethical shortcuts, a disregard for personal well-being, and a crippling fear of failure.


Conversely, prioritizing personal effort fosters a growth mindset. When individuals are encouraged to focus on the process rather than the destination, they are more likely to embrace challenges as opportunities for learning. The act of "trying your best" cultivates resilience in the face of setbacks. When failure inevitably occurs, as it often does, the emphasis on effort allows individuals to analyze their approach, identify areas for improvement, and bounce back stronger. It encourages a focus on personal development, where the journey itself becomes a valuable experience.


Furthermore, a focus on effort promotes a deeper sense of self-worth. When individuals derive satisfaction from the process of striving, they are less reliant on external validation for their sense of accomplishment. They learn to value their own dedication, perseverance, and commitment, regardless of the ultimate outcome. This internal locus of control fosters a stronger sense of agency and self-efficacy, empowering individuals to take ownership of their lives and pursue their passions with greater conviction.   


Consider the athlete who dedicates years to training, pushing their physical and mental limits, only to fall short of a podium finish. While the outcome may be disappointing, the journey itself has transformed them. They have developed discipline, resilience, and a deeper understanding of their own capabilities. The lessons learned through their unwavering effort will serve them well in future endeavors, far outweighing the fleeting satisfaction of a medal.


Similarly, the aspiring artist who spends countless hours honing their craft, experimenting with different techniques, and pouring their heart into their work, may not achieve immediate critical acclaim or financial success. However, the process of creation itself is intrinsically rewarding. It allows them to express their unique perspective, connect with their inner self, and contribute to the world in a meaningful way.


Of course, this is not to suggest that outcomes are entirely irrelevant. They provide feedback, measure progress, and offer a sense of direction. However, they should not be the sole determinant of our worth or the primary driver of our actions. A balanced perspective acknowledges the importance of both effort and outcome, recognizing that the former often lays the groundwork for the latter.   


In a society that often equates success with material wealth and external recognition, it is crucial to remember that true fulfillment lies in the pursuit of personal excellence. By prioritizing effort, we cultivate the qualities that truly matter: resilience, perseverance, and a deep-seated belief in our own potential. We learn to value the journey as much as the destination, recognizing that the act of striving, of "trying our best," is a reward in itself. Ultimately, it is not the trophies on the shelf, but the character forged in the crucible of effort that truly defines a life well-lived.


How Tuition-MLR can Help

GP Essay: To what extent is it more valuable to strive for personal effort and 'trying your best' in life, rather than solely focusing on achieving the most successful outcome?


Tuition-MLR can provide valuable assistance to students in several ways:


1. Enhanced Understanding of the Subject:


  • Clarifying Complex Issues: Tuition-MLR helps students navigate the wide range of global and local issues discussed in the syllabus, providing in-depth analysis and different perspectives.

  • Mastering Key Concepts: Tuition-MLR breaks down complex topics into manageable segments, ensuring students grasp the core concepts effectively.

  • Developing Critical Thinking: Tuition-MLR emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills, encouraging students to question assumptions, identify biases, and form well-reasoned arguments.


2. Improved Essay Writing Skills:


  • Understanding Essay Structures: Students learn effective structures for different essay question types (e.g., value, comparison, effectiveness), enabling them to organize their thoughts logically.

  • Crafting Strong Arguments: Tuition-MLR guides students on how to develop compelling introductions, well-supported arguments with relevant examples, effective rebuttals, and mature conclusions.

  • Refining Language Skills: Tuition-MLR focuses on enhancing vocabulary, grammar, and overall writing style, enabling students to express their ideas clearly and persuasively.

  • Learning Effective Analysis Techniques: Students are taught how to analyze essay questions, identify key terms, and develop nuanced responses.


3. Strengthening Comprehension and Application Skills:


  • Developing Paraphrasing Techniques: Tuition-MLR equips students with strategies for accurate and effective paraphrasing, crucial for Paper 2.

  • Improving Inferential Skills: Students learn how to read between the lines, understand implied meanings, and answer inferential questions effectively.

  • Mastering Application Questions: Tuition-MLR provides frameworks and techniques for tackling application questions, including how to apply global issues to the local context.

  • Enhancing Text Analysis: Students learn how to dissect comprehension passages, identify key points, and select the best evidence to support their answers.


4. Exam Preparation and Strategies:


  • Familiarization with Exam Format: Regular practice and mock tests simulate the actual exam environment, helping students get accustomed to the format and time constraints.

  • Learning Answering Techniques: Tuition-MLR provides specific strategies for tackling different question types in both Paper 1 and Paper 2.

  • Time Management Skills: Students learn how to allocate their time effectively during exams to ensure they can complete all sections.

  • Identifying Common Mistakes: Tuition-MLR highlights common pitfalls to avoid in essays and comprehension answers.


5. Personalized Support and Feedback:


  • Individualized Attention: Smaller class sizes in Tuition-MLR allow tutors to provide more personalized attention and address individual learning needs.

  • Constructive Feedback: Regular feedback on essays and comprehension answers helps students identify their strengths and weaknesses and improve their performance.

  • One-on-One Consultations: Tuition-MLR offers individual consultations for students to discuss their progress and clarify doubts.


6. Staying Updated on Current Affairs:


  • Content Enrichment: Tuition-MLR includes discussions and notes on current local and global issues, providing students with relevant examples and content for their essays and application questions.

  • Developing Global Awareness: By exploring a wide range of topics, students develop a broader understanding of the world and different perspectives.


In essence, Tuition-MLR aims to equip students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in their General Paper examinations by providing structured lessons, targeted practice, personalized guidance, and up-to-date content.




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